Mexico City, November 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has praised Kimi Antonelli for overcoming early criticism and delivering a historic Formula One Drivers’ Championship victory, saying the team’s decision to promote the Italian was a calculated move despite doubts surrounding his readiness.
Antonelli, 20, secured the 2026 title with a third-place finish at the Mexico City Grand Prix, becoming the youngest-ever world champion in Formula One. His achievement marks a remarkable turnaround from his difficult rookie campaign in 2025, when he finished seventh in the standings and failed to score points in 10 races.
The Italian had joined Mercedes as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement after the seven-time world champion moved to Ferrari. His performances in 2025 prompted calls for him to be moved to a smaller team, but Wolff said he had remained convinced about the youngster’s potential.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 after the title triumph, Wolff recalled how doubts had emerged even during Antonelli’s junior career and intensified after his challenging first season.
“People said he shouldn’t even be in F1; he should be at a smaller team, 10 races and no points, the tears in Spa, and then this. I’m just so proud of the team; all of them continued to trust him, and he delivered,” Wolff said.
He added that promoting Antonelli had been “always a calculated risk, not a real risk”, recalling how the driver had been around the Mercedes garage since he was 11.
Wolff also highlighted the Italian’s influence on the team’s atmosphere, saying his affectionate and outgoing personality had brought a noticeable change to the traditionally reserved Mercedes environment.
The Austrian said Antonelli combined maturity behind the wheel and in professional interactions with the enthusiasm of a 20-year-old, recalling that the youngster spent his birthday at a waterpark with friends.
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